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Whether it’s a natural disaster in a far-off
land or a hometown charity in need,
Americans are a generous people and quick
to support worthy causes. The one thing
donors expect is accountability, along with
an assurance their contribution will be used
responsibly for the intended purpose. Savvy
donors have learned they can turn to
watchdog groups for an evaluation of an
organization’s performance before making a
donation.
That’s why the NC Aquarium Society was
pleased to receive a four-star rating for the
third year in a row from Charity Navigator,
the nation’s largest and most relied-upon
evaluator of charities. The Aquarium
Society becomes one of only 13 per cent
of approximately 5,400 charities to be
recognized with this highest possible
designation.
“Donors are demanding accountability,
transparency and quantifiable results from
the charities they choose to support with
their hard-earned dollars,” wrote Ken Berger,
Charity Navigator’s president and chief
executive, in the announcement letter. “This
‘exceptional’ designation differentiates the
North Carolina Aquarium Society from its
peers and demonstrates to the public it is
worthy of their trust.”
We take very seriously our fiduciary role
as guardians of all funds entrusted to our
organization, whether from membership
dues, gift shop operations, or private dona-tions.
Your giving allows us to provide well
over $2 million annually in critical Aquarium
assistance and is more important than ever
in this time of state budget cutbacks. We’ve
never forgotten it’s your hard-earned dollars
that make all this possible. We pledge our
continued stewardship of that trust.
Soundings
Let Us Hear from You!
Do you have comments about …
• Exhibits?
• The Web site?
• Aquarium programs?
• Aquarium News articles?
We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
ncaquariums.com or 919-877-5500
Aquarium News is published twice yearly by
the NC Aquarium Society
3125 Poplarwood Ct., Suite 160
Raleigh, NC 27604
919-877-5500
1-800-832-FISH
Managing Editor: Sherry White
Contributors: Wayne Justice, Julie Powers,
Lindsay Thornton, Virginia Aquarium and Marine
Science Center, Frank Krasovec, Cyle Casey, Kyle
Humphrey, Mark Joyner, Jay Barnes, Claire Aubel,
Teresa Kelly, Sue Mobley, Amy Kilgore, Emily Jones,
Buster Nunemaker, Shaun Tomson, Allen Smith,
Allen Monroe, Lee Moore, Karen Doody, Jim Smith,
Sandy Smith, Shasta Hartley, John Mauser, Georgia
Aquarium, Neil GT Photography, The Knot, Michele
Bunce, Kathy Mitchell, Peggy Sloan, Chad Goodson,
Windy Arey-Kent, Georgia Minnich, Terry Bryant,
Pat McNeese, Heather Broadhurst, Caterina
Gennaro, Christian Guerreri, Katherine Fourhman,
Kitty Dough.
Design by Sally Johns Design, Raleigh, NC
Printing by Hickory Printing Group
Renew Your Membership!
Is your membership about to expire?
Three EASY ways to renew!
1. Call 1-800-832-FISH
2. Check ncaquariums.com and click on
"Join the Aquarium"
3. Complete the membership form on
pg. 17. Write RENEWAL at the top, then
clip and mail!
4
Aquarium
Showcases Sharks
5
Take the
Plunge!
Catch the Wave 6
10
Goodness
Sakes – It’s
Snakes!
11
Best of
Weddings
13
Taking Off
14
The Real ‘Dirt’
Summer 2010
A Q U A R I U M
N E W S M A G A Z I N E O F T H E N O R T H C A R O L I N A A Q U A R I U M S NEWS
On the Cover: These striped bass struck a pose for Kyle
Humphrey of Kure Beach, during his visit to the Aquarium
at Fort Fisher. The photo took first place in the At the
Aquarium category in the Aquariums’ 2009 contest.
Cover Inset: A sea star slowly grapples its way through
stalks of soft coral. Cyle Casey of Henrico, VA, captured
this scene on the U-352 to win Honorable Mention in
the Underwater Close-Up category in the Aquariums’
photo contest.
Receive timely updates on coming Aquarium activities by signing up for SEAmail, our Photo by Sherry White
monthly e-newsletter. If you’re a member of the Aquarium family, you’ve already found
SEAmail in your inbox. Not a member? Not a problem. Visit ncaquariums.com and sign up
to have it delivered each month!
Frank Krasovec of
Fuquay-Varina won
second place in the
Underwater Open
category in the
Aquariums’ 2009 photo
contest for his shot of
Atlantic spadefish on
the Spar wreck.
Photo by Julie Powers
Photo by John Mauser
In Memoriam
The Aquariums lost a
wonderful friend and
supporter in March,
with the passing of
Herbert “Herb” McKim
of Wilmington, NC.
Herb was the architect
and visionary for all
three NC Aquarium
expansions, and it was
always a privilege to work with him. Our
thoughts and prayers are extended to his
wife of 59 years, Catherine, and the
McKim family.
Design by Chad Goodson
By Mark Joyner, Executive Vice President
NC Aquarium Society
Herb McKim
Photo by Caterina Gennaro
Photo by Wayne Justice
R
PINE KNOLL SHORES
FORT FISHER
JENNETTE’S
PIER
The Aquarium on Roanoke
Island welcomed Maylon White
as its new director in February.
He replaces Joe Malat, who
retired in December.
White is the former director of
exhibits and animal husbandry
for the Virginia Aquarium and
Marine Science Center, a
position he held for 12 years.
White oversaw the recent
$22.6 million expansion of the
Virginia Aquarium and, prior
to serving as director, held the
position of exhibits curator at
the facility for 10 years. He has
an undergraduate degree in
biology/marine science and a
master’s of science degree in
oceanography/biology from Old
Dominion University.
“I’m excited to be joining the
team at the North Carolina
Aquarium on Roanoke Island,”
said White. “I’m impressed with
the Aquarium and the vision
state and aquarium leaders
have, especially concerning
the Jennette’s Pier project.
I’m ready to get started.”
A certified SCUBA instructor,
White is active in the
Association of Zoos and
Aquariums (AZA), having served
on several accreditation inspec-tion
teams. The Aquariums are
accredited members of AZA and
its 221 members. These organi-zations
work together to build
North America's largest wildlife
conservation movement.
Participating facilities inspire
more than 175 million visitors
and their communities to
become guardians of wildlife.
The North Carolina Aquarium at
Pine Knoll Shores welcomes its
new Director, Allen Monroe.
Well respected throughout the
public aquarium community,
Monroe earned his bachelor’s of
science degree in Wildlife and
Fisheries Sciences from Texas
A&M University and his master’s
of business administration degree
from the University of Texas.
He comes to Pine Knoll Shores
from Austin, Texas, where he had
been Director of Operations for
the ADM Group since 2004. The
consulting firm helps private, state
and federal organizations manage
research projects and policy devel-opment.
He has held management
positions at the Indianapolis Zoo
and the Oregon Coast Aquarium
and brings more than 20 years of
experience in the operation of
public aquariums and the estab-lishment
of education, research
and conservation programs.
“I’m excited to be joining the
excellent staff and volunteers
at the North Carolina Aquarium
at Pine Knoll Shores, and continu-ing
the work of inspiring appreci-ation
and conservation of North
Carolina’s aquatic environments,”
said Monroe.
Monroe takes the position previ-ously
held by Jay Barnes. Barnes
retired from state employment
after 20 years as Director at Pine
Knoll Shores, and a total of 30
years with the North Carolina
Aquariums Division. Barnes is now
Director of Development for the
North Carolina Aquarium Society.
The membership-based Aquarium
Society supports exhibits, pro-grams
and operations at the three
North Carolina Aquariums.
Maylon White
Brian Dorn, husbandry curator at the Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, was
selected as the sole recipient of the 2010 Robert O. Wagner Scholarship
Award, presented by The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). All
three North Carolina state-operated public Aquariums are accredited by
AZA. Dorn has been husbandry curator at the Aquarium at Pine Knoll
Shores for more than four years.
Dorn used the merit-based scholarship to attend AZA’s Advanced Avian
Program Management course in preparation for “Winging It – Birds in
Flight” (see related story, page 13), a new and exciting live-animal program
that will debut at the Aquarium this summer. The award included more
than $2,500 for tuition, board and travel accommodations. Dorn is one of
four trainers at the Aquarium who spent last fall and winter preparing to
handle owls, hawks and waterbirds for the new public program.
By Julie Powers
Public Relations Coordinator
Allen Monroe
By Buster Nunemaker
Public Relations Coordinator
Photo courtesy of Virginia Aquarium
At the
Helm
Cold-stunned sea turtles swamped the East Coast this past winter in
what may be the biggest turtle stranding event since record-keeping
began. Nearly 75 live turtles from Cape Hatteras beaches were rescued
and rehabilitated during the unusually cold winter. Sizes ranged from
a 4-pound Kemp’s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii) to a 136-pound
loggerhead (Caretta caretta). The Aquariums helped care for more
than half the rescued animals.
The big chill reached as far south as Florida, where nearshore ocean
and estuarine water temperatures dropped into the 40s. Up and down
the East Coast, a major rescue effort collected 5,000 sea turtles, most
of which were live green turtles. Eighty per cent recovered and were
released.
Sea turtles are reptiles and can’t regulate their body temperature.
They normally survive cold spells by seeking warmer waters. Body
temperatures below 50° F cause lethargy, or “stunning,” and turtles
become inactive and float at the surface. During severe or prolonged
cold periods, they may not recover. Juveniles are especially vulnerable
because of their small body mass.
Large numbers of green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas), one of the
smaller sea turtle species, often turn up cold-stunned, because they
frequent shallow water to feed on their favorite food – seagrass.
The Aquarium on Roanoke
Island began accepting
cold-stunned animals in mid-
December for what turned out
to be a record North Carolina
stranding season. With the help
of the local non-profit Network
for Endangered Sea Turtles
(NEST), 41 live-stranded
turtles were cared for at the
Aquarium’s five-tank facility.
Thanks to volunteers and dona-tions,
NEST covers stranding
response, transport, medical
costs and daily care. The
Aquarium provides logistical
coordination, rehabilitation
facilities and nutrition.
An influx of small green turtles
soon led to tight quarters in
the Aquarium’s Roanoke Island
rehab facility. With the help
of charter boat captains and
Coast Guard stations from
Hatteras Inlet to Fort
Macon, many rehabbed
turtles were released into
the warm Gulf Stream
before the next wave of
strandings hit just before
Christmas.
With turtles continuing to
arrive, the Roanoke Island
facility quickly became
overwhelmed. On Feb. 6,
a single trip resulted in the
rescue of 19 turtles! Patients
were sent to the Aquariums
at Fort Fisher and Pine
Knoll Shores; Karen Beasley
Sea Turtle Rescue and
Rehabilitation Center on
Topsail Island; and to
facilities in Virginia,
South Carolina, Georgia
and Florida.
Because of the massive number of fatalities, North Carolina institutions
helped with necropsies (animal autopsies) and received nearly 500
turtle carcasses from Florida. Volunteer scientists and biologists,
including several from the Aquariums, assisted with weighing, measur-ing,
photographing, dissecting, recording data and preserving organs.
Necropsies help determine, or rule out, cause of death and provide
other valuable information. For sea turtles, ingested marine debris
and anatomical deformities are noted. Skin samples help determine
genetics. Muscle samples may indicate where animals have been
feeding. The humerus bone of the flipper is used to help determine age.
The Aquariums have a long history of working with other groups to
help sea turtles. Caring for sick or injured turtles takes the mobilization
of a network of local, state and federal agencies, non-profits and
dedicated volunteers. Find out how you can help. Look for the
Conservation/Research link at www.ncaquariums.com. Other North
Carolina resources include www.nestonline.org and
www.seaturtlehospital.org.
Scholarship for the Birds
By Claire Aubel, Public Relations Assistant
Photo by Julie Powers
Husbandry Curator Brian Dorn meets a red-tailed hawk.
Photo by Lindsay Thornton
Tough Winter
for Turtles
By Christian Guerreri, Aquarist
Pat McNeese, Conservation and Research Coordinator
Rehab quarters filled to capacity at the Aquarium on Roanoke Island last winter, when unusually cold temperatures flooded the facility with ailing sea turtles.
Aquarist Michele Lamping checks
on a recovering green sea turtle.
NEST volunteer Valerie Morell monitors
the progress of a loggerhead sea turtle.
Photo by Teresa Kelly
Photo by Claire Aubel
Photo by Teresa Kelly
2 Aquarium NEWS Aquarium NEWS 3
Aquarium NEWS 5
The Hamptons may have the “jet set,” but the Aquariums
have the “get-wet set.” See what it’s all about by signing
on for one or more of the Aquariums’ fun and interesting
Special Activity programs. Canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling,
surfing, crabbing, clamming, fishing – all involve adults
and youngsters in the exploration and investigation of
coastal sounds, beaches and maritime forests. These
Special Activities require advance registration and fees.
It’s not surprising that the Aquariums’ day camps for
young adventurers are one of the most popular summer
activities. Camps run June through August and always
fill quickly. Each session is designed for a specific age
group, and opening registration and camp dates vary at
each facility. Check details by visiting ncaquariums.com
and clicking on your favorite Aquarium. For camp
registration, call 1-800-832-FISH (3474) as early as
possible to check space availability.
Back inside, the Aquariums offer free programs daily.
Visitors can take in regular features such as live animal
presentations, animal feedings, live dives, films, videos,
animal encounters, games, crafts and more.
For a complete listing of what’s happening this summer,
visit ncaquariums.com and click on your favorite facility.
Check out its programs and activities page and the
interactive calendar, where you’ll find details about each
event. Many programs and activities fill quickly, so plan
ahead and don’t miss the fun!
Photo by Claire Aubel
Photo by Wayne Justice
Photo by Emily Jones
Put your fins and flippers together for the funniest “fish face”
the Aquariums found in a year-long competition.
Kayley Ireland of Merritt, NC, mimicked the expression on the
face of a puppy drum she caught to win the “Show Us Your
Fish Face” grand prize. Kayley chose “Big Mouth” as her Fish
Face name. The winning package for Kayley and her family
includes a two-night stay at the Hampton Inn Atlantic Beach,
dinner at a local restaurant, a behind-the-scenes tour of the
Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores and a family membership
in the NC Aquarium Society.
Throughout last year, people of all ages puckered, pouted
and puffed their way onto the Aquariums’ contest website,
“showusyourfishface.com.” Judges scrutinized an ocean of
entries and top vote-getters to choose one winner each
month. Those 12 enjoyed a $25 Aquarium gift basket of
goodies and moved on to compete for the grand prize.
Kayley caught her
22-inch puppy drum
while fishing with
her grandparents.
She didn’t know at
the time that her
pursed-lip pose
could be a potential
prize-winner.
“She loves to make
people laugh, so she
made her fish face
and knew we would
get a kick out of it,”
said her mother,
Heather Ireland. “It wasn't until afterwards, when I was
sharing the hilarious picture with friends at work, that I
found out about the contest. It's a great honor and we are
truly appreciative.”
Kayley hams it up with her winning
Fish Face photo catch.
By Amy Kilgore, Public Relations Coordinator
Fishy-est Face Winner
Sharks are in the spotlight this summer
at the Aquarium on Roanoke Island. Along
with the apex predators currently cruising
the 285,000-gallon Graveyard of the
Atlantic exhibit, a new display highlights
smaller sharks. Shark-themed logo mascot,
Dr. Finnegan, guides visitors through the
Aquarium to discover how these ancient
fish became such successful survivors.
Visitors also learn why scientists are so
concerned about the future of sharks in
our oceans.
Photo by Sue Mobley
Aquarium
By Katherine Fourhman, Educator
Buster Nunemaker, Public Relations Coordinator
“In addition to our resident sharks, we’re bringing in new and
different species, including some ‘sharky’ freshwater cousins,”
said Frank Hudgins, director of operations and husbandry at
the Aquarium. “There’s also special activity programs, like
‘Snack with the Sharks’ and ‘Breakfast with the Rays,’ that
reveal the relationship of sharks to their stingray and
skate cousins.”
The shark-themed summer includes interactive elements for
visitors, such as a life-size shark cage, shark jaws and skin, an
anatomical shark cross-section and other hands-on features.
Get a real feel for these maligned animals by touching small,
live bamboo sharks, as they swim with their stingray relatives
in the newly-renovated Close Encounters exhibit.
On Thursdays, sharky goings-on include activities and give-aways.
Throughout the summer, guest speakers are scheduled
to present talks on these fascinating yet greatly feared
creatures. For speakers and dates, visit www.ncaquariums.com
and click on Roanoke Island, then type sharks in the search box
at the bottom of the menu shown at left.
If you’re a fossil fan, don’t miss the chance to go sleuthing for
pre-historic shark teeth in the Aquarium’s outdoor Fossil Pit.
You get to keep your finds!
4 Aquarium NEWS
Aquarium NEWS
Surfing has come a long way since first observed by Europeans
in the 1700s. While its culture continues to evolve, one thing
remains unchanged: a respect for the ocean.
The art of surfing, called he'enalu in Hawaii, will be the focus
June 5-6, when the Aquarium at Fort Fisher debuts its Surf It,
Save It: Aquarium Surf Festival. The weekend is designed to
encourage environmental stewardship through surfing, as well
as educate visitors about the sport’s culture and lifestyle.
The festival lineup includes surfing films; an exhibit on the
history of surfing with vintage boards; hula and ukulele
demonstrations; rehabilitated shorebirds and turtles; sea oat
plantings; and clean-ups of Masonboro and Zeke’s islands. On
the nearby beach, Surfer’s Healing will stage mini-camps for
autistic children and the US Coast Guard will demonstrate
search-and-air rescue, featuring a C-130 and H60 helicopter.
Celebrities will be on hand, too. Skipper Funderberg, local
author of “Surfing on the Cape Fear Coast,” will sign copies of
his book, and board shapers Sean O’Donnell and Will Allison will
discuss the evolution of surfboard design. Shaun Tomson, former
world-champion surfer from South Africa, will host a private
showing of his mid-70s surfing feature film, "Bustin' Down The
Door," and sign copies of his book, “Surfer's Code – 12 Simple
Lessons for Riding Through Life,” available in the Aquarium
Gift Shop.
Surf and ocean art by photographer DJ Struntz will also be on
exhibit, and large, outdoor installations by Sean Ruttkay will be
featured in the Aquarium garden.
For a complete schedule of events and times, visit
ncaquariums.com and click on the Aquarium at Fort Fisher.
A New Angle
AA NNeeww AAnnggllee
“Rescue Men: The Story of the
Pea Island Lifesavers” chroni-cles
the nation’s only all-black
US Life-Saving Service
crew. From 1880 until after
WWII, black lifesavers per-formed
many daring sea res-cues,
saving the lives of
scores of men, women and
children who, under other cir-cumstances,
would have con-sidered
the hands of those
reaching out to help them to
be of the “wrong” race.
The Pea Island station was
part of a network of stations
along the American coast
after the Civil War, during an
era when the prosperity of
the nation was dependent
upon maritime trade.
In January 1880, former
slave Richard Etheridge was
appointed to lead the Pea
Island station crew. Few
blacks had held positions in
the service, none as Keeper.
Just five months later, arson-ists
set the station ablaze and
it burned to the ground.
Black crews ran Pea Island for
nearly 70 years, establishing a
reputation as being among
the most diligent and coura-geous
surfmen along the
coast. They showed their
heroism on the night of Oct.
11, 1896, during the worst
hurricane to strike North
Carolina in 50 years.
Etheridge led his crew down
the beach until they came
abreast of the wrecked
schooner E. S. Newman. Upon
realizing that conventional
equipment would not work in
the treacherous conditions,
Etheridge had two men swim
out to the ship. With nothing
but a line tied between them,
the lifesavers made nine trips
through the raging surf and
carried all the mariners to
safety on shore.
It would be 100 years before
the Coast Guard recognized
their heroism. In 1996, during
a ceremony at the Naval
Memorial, Admiral Robert
Kramek posthumously award-ed
a Gold Lifesaving Medal to
Etheridge and his men.
Catch the Wave By Amy Kilgore
Public Relations Coordinator
Pier Making Progress
Construction of a new icon for the coast continues, as Jennette’s
Pier plants itself deep into the sands of the Outer Banks. It’s been
decades since her first timbers were driven in 1939, and the oldest
fishing pier on the Outer Banks is being rebuilt from the bottom
up with massive concrete pilings. At completion, the new pier will
extend 1,000 feet out into the Atlantic Ocean and offer a priceless
perspective on our coastal treasures.
The newest member of the NC Aquarium system has the tradition-al
appeal of a fishing pier, along with a two-story pier house over
the water. Downstairs, visitors can enjoy aquarium tanks and
exhibits and take part in fishing programs in the classroom. Rods
and reels, bait and tackle, food service and a gift shop will all be
available. Upstairs will house more tanks and a spacious meeting
room for public hearings and rental events. Towering above the
pier, three wind turbines will exemplify the pier’s embrace of
alternative energy, including hydrogen fuel cells and banks of
solar panels.
Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting project moves toward
completion in spring 2011. For more information on the construc-tion
process, visit ncaquariums.com and click on Aquarium Piers.
Photo provided by Shaun Tomson
Photo by Jay Barnes
Thanks to reliable weather forecasting, residents along the coast were prepared for this past
winter’s rare snowfall Valentine’s weekend, but the green sea turtle at the entrance to the
Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores looked a little chilly. The bronze sculpture is sponsored by Family
Fare Convenience Stores.
The winter’s unseasonably cold temperatures up and down the East Coast caught many live,
sea-going turtles off guard. Cold-stunning is the most common result, however, fatalities can
and do occur. See related story on page 3.
Snow Turtle
Editor’s Note: “The Lifesavers of Pea Island, Heroes of the Outer
Banks” exhibit at the Aquarium on Roanoke Island pays tribute
to the dedicated and heroic officers and men who served at the
Pea Island Lifesaving Station. Producer and Director Allan R.
Smith of DreamQuest Productions brought this incredible story
to life in a 60-minute documentary film, capturing stories from
the descendants, archival footage and filming reenactment at
the Chicamacomico LSS. Below is Smith's synopsis.
Photo courtesy of Allan R. Smith
LIFESAVERS
Photo by Julie Powers
By Allan R. Smith, DreamQuest Productions
Photo by Allen Monroe
The fall Surf Fishing Workshop at the
Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores Oct.
8-10 will take a “let’s fish first”
approach this year. Participation is
limited, so plan ahead.
The comprehensive workshop opens
Friday evening with a primer on fish
identification and conservation,
plus the basics on equipment, bait
and tackle.
Participants hit the beach Saturday
morning for casting demonstrations
and hands-on practice. The outdoor
session also includes tips and
techniques on net casting for bait
fish. Then, it’s back to the Aquarium
for lunch and an afternoon of
instruction by experienced anglers.
Topics include beach and surf
habitat; rods and reels; line, leaders
and knots; weights, swivels, snaps
and hooks; rigs,lures and bait; and
fish handling and cleaning.
Sunday brings all fishing, all day at
Cape Lookout National Seashore.
Ferry passage, lunches, a Friday
evening social and drawings for
prizes are included in the $150
course fee. To register and for full
details, call the Aquarium in early
fall at 252-247-4003, or toll free
800-832-FISH (3474), or visit
ncaquariums.com and click on the
Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores.
6 Aquarium NEWS 7
Picture this – your shutterbug skills just
earned you $500 as a first-place winner in
the NC Aquariums Amateur Underwater
Photo Contest!
Sponsored by East Carolina Bank, the
annual competition attracts hundreds of
entries from amateur and non-professional
photographers across the country. Entrants
can submit up to three photos in three
different categories, and up to three
images per category. Entry deadline is
Dec. 31 of each year. Winners are
announced in March.
The 2009 contest gleaned stunning shots,
ranging from fishes to fowl. Photos must
be taken in waters off North Carolina;
within the state’s freshwater systems; or in
one of the state’s three public Aquariums.
Entries are judged on creativity; proficiency
in underwater photography; representation
of the state’s marine organisms and
habitats; and the depiction of beauty and
diversity of North Carolina’s aquatic life.
First place winners receive $500; second
place $200; and third place $100.
Honorable Mentions receive $50. To view
winning entries, or for additional contest
information, visit ncaquariums.com.
Congratulations to this year’s winners!
1st Place: Cookie Cutter
Sea Star
Lee Moore
Atlantic Beach, NC
Spar wreck, 100 ft.
2nd Place: Oyster Toadfish
Karen Doody
Morehead City, NC
Suloide wreck, 60 ft.
3rd Place: Blenny
Jim Smith
Duncansville, PA
Aeolus wreck
1st Place: Reticulate Moray
Sandy Smith
Duncansville, PA
U-352 wreck, 110 ft.
2nd Place: Atlantic Spadefish
Frank Krasovec
(See feature photo on
Contents page)
3rd Place: Barracuda
Karen Doody
Morehead City, NC
Titan tugboat, 60 ft.
Honorable Mention:
Sand Tiger Shark
Frank Krasovec
Fuquay-Varina, NC
Spar wreck, 80 ft.
1st Place: Striped Bass
Kyle Humphrey
Kure Beach, NC
Aquarium at Fort Fisher
2nd Place: Eastern Newt
Shasta Hartley
Dudley, NC
Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
3rd Place: Bobwhites
Karen Doody
Morehead City, NC
Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Photo Contest Winners!
1 1
2 3
8 Aquarium NEWS Aquarium NEWS 9
Underwater Close-ups
Underwater Open
At the Aquariums
3
HM
2
3
1
Goodness Sakes, It’s Snakes!
These non-venomous constrictors are common throughout North Carolina and the
southeastern United States. Most corn snakes grow to a length of 5 feet, and are red, orange,
yellow, black and brown in color. In rare cases, corn snakes are found with unusual colors or
patterns. The first wild albino, or amelanistic, corn snake was found in North Carolina in
1953. A herpetologist bred the albino to produce more amelanistic corn snakes.
Over the years, other unusually colored corn snakes have been bred, adding endless color
and pattern possibilities to the captive gene pool. Captive breeding helps reduce pressure on
wild populations, and today there are more than 100 different morphs of captive-bred corn
snakes! Their docile nature and beautiful colors make them popular captive-bred pets.
The Bear Creek Farm exhibit features up to10 different snakes, ranging from butter yellow to
blood red to blizzard white, along with other colors. Their patterns also vary from saddles to
spots to stripes. Make it a point to check out Bear Creek Farm on your next visit to the
Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. You’ll marvel at the “cornucopia” of colors and patterns!
One of the greatest benefits of being a NC Aquarium Society
member is found when traveling to other zoos and aquariums
around the U S. and Canada – free or discounted admission!
Currently, 190 institutions offer some level of reciprocity with
NC Aquarium memberships.
The most recent addition to this list is the spectacular Georgia
Aquarium in Atlanta, which offers a special discount via their
website only (visit georgiaaquarium.org/nc). Closer to home,
our members get in free at the NC Zoo, Natural Science
Center of Greensboro, Western NC Nature Center, Sylvan
Heights Waterfowl Park in Scotland Neck and, of course, all
three NC Aquariums!
Before planning your next road trip, be sure to check our
complete reciprocity listing at ncaquariums.com/membership.
By John Mauser, Aquarist
Barns, sheds and outbuildings are favorite hunting grounds for corn snakes.
The new Bear Creek Farm exhibit at the Aquarium at Pine Knoll
Shores features corn snakes in myriad colors and patterns. The
exhibit’s rustic setting recreates a scene from an old barn, like
those scattered throughout the state. Old sheds and barns are
known hunting
grounds for
hungry corn
snakes looking for
a tasty mouse.
Corn snakes are
sometimes called
rat snakes
because of their
taste for rodents.
Captive-bred corn snakes, like the ones above,
come in a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns.
In the wild, these docile snakes are reddish-orange
with multicolored markings.
Who can be more particular about details
than a bride-to-be? All the more reason the
Aquarium on Roanoke Island was delighted
when local brides voted it “Best of Weddings
2010 Pick.” The recognition appears in The
Knot, a local and national magazine deemed
the No. 1 wedding resource most used and
trusted by brides. The magazine in turn voted
the Aquarium “Best of Museums” – “a sea-side
soiree that guests won’t soon forget.”
"We're delighted to have been given these
wonderful designations,” said Michele Bunce,
special events coordinator at the Aquarium
on Roanoke Island. “We try to make guest
experiences one they won’t forget, especially
the most special day in a person’s life – their
wedding day. Sunset ceremonies, cocktails in
our beautiful galleries, dinner and dancing
under the sea – the possibilities are endless.”
The Knot reaches more than a million
engaged couples each year. It also produces
books and TV programs. The designation,
“Best of Weddings,” provides a by-brides-for-
brides guide to top wedding professionals
across the country and is considered a must-have
reference when it comes to selecting
the best-of-the-best.
The state’s three public Aquariums provide
unique venues for special occasions – from
weddings and reunions to conferences and
retreats. They’re eco-friendly, and revenue
generated by facility rentals is “recycled”
to support the Aquariums’ mission, programs
and future development. “You can say we’re
sustainably chic!” quipped Bunce.
Consider one of the Aquariums as a site for
your next special event. For information, visit
www.ncaquariums.com
and click on your
favorite Aquarium.
Select the “Rent the
Aquarium” menu listing
for information and
contact numbers.
En garde for high-seas hi-jinks on
June 17, when pretend-pirates board
the Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores at 4
p.m. for the first of five Family Nights.
Family Nights are scheduled every other
Thursday June 17-August 12, when the
Aquarium extends its hours until 8 p.m.
for these special evenings. Each Family
Night features a different theme and
activities are free with admission or
membership. Daytime visitors can
return after 4 p.m. at no additional
charge with their receipts from earlier
in the day. Mark your calendars for
these fun-filled evenings!
Every other Thursday
June 17 - August 12 • 4-8 p.m.
June 17 Pirates
July 1 North Carolina Culture
July 15 Slime, Scales and
Salamander Tales
July 29 Sharks
Aug. 12 Winging It: Birds in Flight
It’s Family Night
North Carolina saw abundant rainfall over the winter. Storms flooded
roads and left persistent puddles and soggy areas around homes.
If you experienced such problems, a rain garden may be the answer.
Rain gardens are created in shallow depressions to capture stormwater
runoff from rooftops and driveways and intercept pollutants carried
by runoff before they reach open waterways. Plants and soils in rain
gardens remove contaminants and allow excess water to filter slowly
into the ground, reducing flooding and erosion. No need to worry about
mosquitoes – rain gardens are designed to retain water no
more than two days. Plants for rain
gardens must be able to tolerate
periods of flooding and survive
occasional drought. Fortunately,
many native North Carolina plants
are well-suited for such conditions.
Don’t miss the beautiful native plants in the rain gardens at the
Aquariums at Pine Knoll Shores and on Roanoke Island. These “green”
landscapes demonstrate how you can prevent water pollution, provide
wildlife habitat and enhance your property with dazzling seasonal color.
For more about rain gardens, see www.bae.ncsu.edu/topic/raingarden/
Reining in Rain
By Kathy Mitchell, Conservation Horticulturist
Aquarium Voted
‘Best of Weddings’
Photo courtesy of Georgia Aquarium
Photos by John Mauser
Photo by Neil GT Photography
Photo by Julie Powers
10 Aquarium NEWS Georgia Aquarium Aquarium NEWS 11
Aquarium NEWS Aquarium NEWS
Ever wonder what it’s like to feed the animals in the
Aquariums’ largest tanks?
This spring the Aquarium at Fort Fisher implemented a new,
enhanced tour for visitors that includes participation in
feeding of some of the Aquarium’s largest residents in the
235,000-gallon Cape Fear Shoals exhibit.
“In response to requests about the popular ‘Behind-the-Scenes’
tours and feedings, participants found the Cape Fear Shoals
exhibit to be the most interesting,” said Aquarium Curator
Hap Fatzinger.
Following a guided tour of the Aquarium’s inner workings,
visitors are escorted to the most hidden part of the Cape Fear
Shoals display. Here, a new raised platform over the exhibit
allows participants a bird’s-eye view of animal behaviors and
an exclusive, first-hand feeding experience of sharks, eels,
stingrays and other animals that glide gracefully through the
offshore reef habitat.
Sign up for this new inside look at the Aquarium, and see
what’s for lunch!
What’s red, purple, black, green and fun
all over? The Aquarium at Fort Fisher’s
Adventure Reef, scheduled to open in
late summer.
Construction of this new, stimulating,
outdoor play area began in March. Plans
for the colorful space include an under-the-
sea scene sure to spark interest and
inquisitiveness among the little folks.
Youngsters can climb a sea fan, explore a
reef and slide through a moray eel.
Parents can grab a snack at the nearby
concession area and relax in the shade,
while their young explorers investigate
the underwater fantasy realm.
Adventure Reef is the first phase of
construction in this new interactive play
space that will be located in the Aquarium’s garden area. A fossil dig is also part of the design, where older explorers can go
sleuthing for ancient artifacts and relics. Our state’s rich fossil history is revealed through fossilized shark teeth, bones, and other
treasures – all waiting to be discovered. Adventure Reef and the Fossil Pit will be located on opposite sides of the Aquarium’s
concession deck, giving parents a chance to join the fun with their youngsters, or relax and watch the action.
Stay tuned for updates as construction continues over the summer.
By Peggy Sloan, Education Curator
Rendering by Chad Goodson
‘Close Encounters’ Gets a Re-do
With renovations well underway, upgrading of the popular Close
Encounters exhibit at the Aquarium on Roanoke Island is scheduled to be
completed in time for summer visitors.
Photo by Buster Nunemaker
Photo by Emily Jones
View from Topside
A New Adventure
The Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
lifts off with a new program this
summer – “Winging It: Birds in Flight.”
Joining the “flight crew” of educators are some pretty
exciting feathered friends, including both raptors and
shorebirds, to delight and engage audiences daily in the
Big Rock Theater. The birds glide overhead, performing a
variety of natural behaviors and responding to cues, as
the flight crew shares conservation and educational
information about the animals.
The avian program promises much fun and excitement
for visitors. It also presents a unique opportunity for the
audience to interact with new and different animals.
Some of the program's birds have permanent injuries
that prevent their release back into the wild.
The birds featured are
found in various
parts of the
state, and
most travel
long distances
seasonally.
By Windy Arey-Kent
Education Curator
Illustrations by Georgia Minnich
Taking
Off !
By Emily Jones, Assistant Amid the solitude of winter beach- Public Relations Coordinator
es, the Aquarium on Roanoke Island
was busy preparing new exhibits
and renovating Aquarium favorites.
This summer, the popular Close
Encounters exhibit has a fresh, new
look and added high-tech features.
New fishes surround the touch
pools with bright color.
State-of-the-art technology, video
display screens and cameras provide
visitors with a breathtaking level of
detail for showcasing some of the
Aquarium’s most unique creatures.
There are also custom-designed
display cabinets to house treasures
from the sea, such as whelk egg
cases, intricate shells and curious
beach finds.
Close Encounters highlights two
very different habitats. In the
stingray pool, rays and guitarfish,
gentle cousins of sharks, glide
on silent wings. Prehistoric
horseshoe crabs plow slowly
through the sand. And this
summer, white-spotted bamboo
sharks will make their debut.
In the nearby shallow-water
pool, visitors become acquainted
with a wide variety of inverte-brates,
including sea stars, sea
urchins and hermit crabs.
From top to bottom, the reno-vated
exhibit brings some of
the Aquarium’s most intriguing
animals into sharper focus. Come
and experience the wonder and
touch the magic of life beneath
the waves.
By Kitty Dough, Exhibits Technician
12 13
Showcasing migratory birds emphasizes the connections
between wide-ranging habitats and the necessity for
comprehensive conservation.
“Winging It: Birds in Flight” is set to premiere Memorial Day
weekend, with daily programs at 11:30 a.m. Tickets must be
purchased at the Aquarium
the day of the program.
Program admission is
$4 per person for ages
3 and up, in addition
to Aquarium admission.
Memberships do not
include “Birds in Flight”
admission or discounts.
Others were bred in
captivity, or obtained
from a network of
cooperative zoos and
aquariums.
The Aquariums offer great photo oppor-tunities
of fishes and other aquatic
creatures, but don’t underestimate
the outdoor surroundings.
A luna moth’s vibrant lime green, yellow,
white and magenta colors stand out like
pop art against the lavender-gray wall
at the Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores.
These striking winged wonders are one
of the largest moths in North America.
Wingspans can reach 3 to 4 inches!
Lunas appear in late spring, but because
their adult life span is only about a week,
they are seldom seen. The best chance
of a sighting is early evening or night,
when you may spy a luna clinging to
your porch screen or flitting around
outside lights.
As short-lived adults, mating and egg
laying must take place quickly. Females
release a pheromone detectable from
great distances by the feathery antennae
of males.
After mating, eggs are deposited on
plants such as sweet gum, willow,
walnut, beech, alder and persimmon.
Winged Wonder
Photo by Sherry White
Meet at the Aquarium
By Heather Broadhurst, Aquarist
The Real ‘Dirt’
on the Aquariums
Beautiful exhibits, healthy animals and a clean, safe
environment greet more than a million Aquarium visitors each
year. To create such a welcome takes dedicated staffs and
volunteers – and sometimes the work isn’t so glamorous.
Before the Aquariums open each morning, housekeeping is
cleaning bathrooms, vacuuming public areas and polishing
exhibit windows. Other staff members empty smelly, rotten
fruit and vegetable waste into the compost bin. Exhibit
technicians begin fabricating new displays, requiring strong-smelling
and messy fiberglass, paints and epoxies. Plumbers
unclog numerous fouled drains.
Many visitors think the daily thawing and chopping of scaly,
slimy fish, squid and other animal foodstuff is the most
unpleasant part of an Aquarium job. But without question, the
most consistent dirty duty is removal of animal waste.
Because a fish’s environment is also its latrine, aquarists must
maintain clean water quality by siphoning waste and changing
dirty, heavy filter bags. Aquarists also clean sludge-filled
protein skimmers that help keep the water clean – imagine
your arm smeared with black, smelly funk. Such maintenance is
necessary not only for the many animals on display, but for a
multitude of specimens in holding facilities and enclosures
behind the scenes.
Otter antics are great fun to watch, but caring for these high-energy
animals is labor-intensive. Because otters digest food
rapidly, a pound of food goes in and a pound of “poo” comes
out. Aquarists clean large amounts of waste daily from the
otters’ exhibit and their behind-the-scene quarters.
Everyone loves sea turtles, however, sea turtles are messy,
high-maintenance animals. Veterinary exams are part of their
care. When vets examine turtles, the animal often shows its
gratitude by streaming poo all over the vet or assistants. Some
snakes also “share.” While their enclosure is being cleaned, or
when an educator is using them in a live-animal presentation,
they emit musk. The pungent odor is the handler’s perfume for
the day.
On your next visit to your favorite Aquarium, think about what
goes on behind the scenes. If you’re enjoying the fish, turtles,
alligators, otters and other animals as they swim, rest and play
in their clean, watery worlds, it means we’re doing our job.
Special Activities instructor Curt Hendrix empties vegetable
waste into the compost bin.
Photo by Amy Kilgore Photo by Sherry White
Aquarist Lauran Jozik performs regular clean-up duty in the
otter exhibit.
Photo by Teresa Kelly
Aquarist Rich Bamberger cleans sludge from one of many
protein skimmers.
Photo by Julep Gillman-Bryan
Aquarium NEWS 15
Looking for just the right place to stage your wedding, anniversary,
birthday party, conference, staff retreat or corporate dinner?
With colorful fish flitting among corals and sea turtles gliding lazily through
quiet waters, the Aquariums set the scene for a delightfully different venue.
All three state-operated public Aquariums are equipped with auditoriums,
classrooms, conference rooms and catering access. Serene and spacious
galleries provide ample room for mingling. Outside decks and courtyards
allow guests to socialize al fresco amid beautiful surroundings.
For your next gala or business-related gathering, consider the Aquariums
for your meeting site. You can be assured everything will go swimmingly!
For information, visit www.ncaquariums.com, or call toll free
800-832-FISH (3474).
14 Aquarium NEWS
If you live in North Carolina, or frequently travel our highways,
chances are you’ve seen the Aquariums’ newest promotional
venture: The colorful, fish-filled billboard shown above.
Through a partnership with the North Carolina Outdoor Advertisers
Association, 50 new billboards began popping up this spring, from
the Interstates of western North Carolina to our coastal highways.
All major billboard companies in the state are participating.
The promotion helps create awareness of the Aquariums among those
who have yet to visit. But the new design also reminds travelers of the
beauty and serenity offered by an Aquarium visit and the inspirational
moments that await them.
The youngster featured in the new billboard venture is Vivian Aubel,
an avid Aquarium fan!
Photo by Clinton Willis, Design by Georgia Minnich
16 Aquarium NEWS Aquarium NEWS 17
II. Member Information
Name of 1st Adult
Name of 2nd Adult
Address:
City: ____________________State: ______ Zip: ______________
Phone: ( )
Email Address:
Please check here if you wish to receive SEAmail, our monthly e-newsletter
Number of children and grandchildren under age 18:
I / We primarily visit the Aquarium at:
Roanoke Island Pine Knoll Shores Fort Fisher
III. Payment Information
Total Payment: $
Method: Check Visa Mastercard
(Please make checks payable to NC Aquarium Society)
Card Number:
Exp. Date:
Signature:
Thank you for your support of the North Carolina Aquariums!
This application can be turned in at the Aquariums when you visit or mailed to the
NC Aquarium Society, 3125 Poplarwood Ct., Suite 160, Raleigh, NC 27604.
Your membership provides operating support to the North
Carolina Aquariums, and helps make possible the unique
experiences enjoyed by more than ONE MILLION VISITORS each
year. It also remains the best deal around!
Families can take advantage of UNLIMITED FREE ADMISSION at
all three Aquariums, as well as at the NC Zoo in Asheboro, for
just $50 a year! In addition, Aquarium members receive free
admission at more than 100 other zoos and aquariums around
the country.
Member benefits include 10% discounts on Aquarium gift shop
purchases and educational programs, along with a subscription
to the award-winning Aquarium News magazine.
Updates on upcoming activities such as summer camps and field
trips are provided through SEAmail, our monthly e-newsletter. Add
in complimentary guest passes to share with friends and it's clear
membership definitely has its advantages!
I. Choose a Member Category
Individual (Benefits for one person) ___________________$30
Family (Benefits for the two adults specified, along with their children and
grandchildren under age 18) ____________________________$50
Donor (Benefits with 4 guest passes and exclusive
MEMBER tote bag)__________________________$100
Patron (Donor benefits with 6 guest passes and
10% discount on Aquarium rentals) _______________________$300
Director (Donor benefits with 8 guest passes and
10% discount on Aquarium rentals) _______________________$500
Benefactor (Donor benefits with 10 guest passes and
10% discount on Aquarium rentals)_______________________$1,000
Online membership now available! www.ncaquariums.com/membership
JOIN THE AQUARIUM FAMILY!
Photo by Daniel Walton
Aquariums Honor All-Star Casts
Aquariums Honor All-Star Casts
Sometimes it takes a village.
The three, state-operated, public Aquariums attract more than a million visitors annually. Fortunately, they have a village of industrious
employees and dedicated volunteers who keep all animals healthy and life-support systems operating. Often it’s the volunteers who are the
front-line troops. This special staff interacts one-on-one with visitors and performs myriad duties throughout the Aquariums, including tasks
behind the scenes.
Each year the Aquariums and the NC Aquarium Society honor employees and volunteers who have demonstrated exceptional service in
making the Aquariums better places to work and visit. Recognition includes cash awards, plaques, celebratory dinners and other offerings.
Honorees for 2009 were recently announced.
At the Aquarium at Fort Fisher, Renee Weeks, special
activities coordinator, was chosen by her fellow workers as the
recipient of the FISH™ Philosophy award, and Julie Johnson,
aquarist technician, was selected to receive the Sea Star award.
Jo Wainwright was presented the Volunteer of the Year award,
and Tom Moffitt received the Dive Volunteer of the Year award.
Other Volunteer of the Year recipients were: Donna Budd, Special
Events; Anthony Tuk, Operations; Linda Kuharcik, Horticulture;
Allison Hajek, Aquariology; Alex Dunlap, Education; and James
Maeda, Junior Volunteer. Bob Tuzik received the Volunteer with
the Most Hours award for contributing 866 hours to the Aquarium!
The Aquarium at Pine Knoll
Shores also recognized staff and
volunteers. Employees Bob Stevens
received the Customer Service
award, and Glenda Rouse was
presented the Award of Excellence.
Dick Barmore and Tom Lenweaver
received Volunteer of the Year
awards, and volunteer Rita
Ellington received the Order
of the Spadefish award. Gregg
Macaulay was the recipient of the Volunteer Diver of the Year award for his role as a diver in the Aquarium's "Live Dive" programs. Jennifer
Chamberlain and Grace Ewen were presented Volunteer Lifetime Achievement awards, and volunteer Marian Kutzer was chosen for the
Order of the Octopus award. The Junior Volunteer award was presented to Adriana-Ferello Sheehan. Numerous others were recognized with
Dedicated Volunteer Service and Above and Beyond awards.
At the Aquarium on Roanoke Island,
Aquarist Britt Purtee was selected by co-workers
as the winner of the Starfish Award,
along with Aquarist Christian Legner, who
received the Award of Excellence. The
Aquarium’s Volunteer Appreciation Dinner
recognized Joyce Shiels with the Volunteer
of the Year award, and Dean Morris and
Steve Brown received Volunteer Diver of
the Year awards.
English playwright and poet John Heywood is credited with penning the phrase, “Many hands make light work.” This is certainly true at the
Aquariums, where much is required to keep the Aquariums operating effectively and efficiently. Staffs and volunteers consistently rise to the
occasion to provide the best possible animal care and the most pleasant visitor experience. Their service and dedication make the Aquariums
one of the state’s top tourist attractions.
We thank you!
Renee Weeks Julie Johnson Jo Wainwright Tom Moffitt
Bob Stevens Glenda Rouse Rita Ellington
Britt Purtee Christian Legner Joyce Shiels Dean Morris Steve Brown
Dick Barmore Tom Lenweaver Gregg Macaulay

Whether it’s a natural disaster in a far-off
land or a hometown charity in need,
Americans are a generous people and quick
to support worthy causes. The one thing
donors expect is accountability, along with
an assurance their contribution will be used
responsibly for the intended purpose. Savvy
donors have learned they can turn to
watchdog groups for an evaluation of an
organization’s performance before making a
donation.
That’s why the NC Aquarium Society was
pleased to receive a four-star rating for the
third year in a row from Charity Navigator,
the nation’s largest and most relied-upon
evaluator of charities. The Aquarium
Society becomes one of only 13 per cent
of approximately 5,400 charities to be
recognized with this highest possible
designation.
“Donors are demanding accountability,
transparency and quantifiable results from
the charities they choose to support with
their hard-earned dollars,” wrote Ken Berger,
Charity Navigator’s president and chief
executive, in the announcement letter. “This
‘exceptional’ designation differentiates the
North Carolina Aquarium Society from its
peers and demonstrates to the public it is
worthy of their trust.”
We take very seriously our fiduciary role
as guardians of all funds entrusted to our
organization, whether from membership
dues, gift shop operations, or private dona-tions.
Your giving allows us to provide well
over $2 million annually in critical Aquarium
assistance and is more important than ever
in this time of state budget cutbacks. We’ve
never forgotten it’s your hard-earned dollars
that make all this possible. We pledge our
continued stewardship of that trust.
Soundings
Let Us Hear from You!
Do you have comments about …
• Exhibits?
• The Web site?
• Aquarium programs?
• Aquarium News articles?
We welcome your suggestions and ideas!
ncaquariums.com or 919-877-5500
Aquarium News is published twice yearly by
the NC Aquarium Society
3125 Poplarwood Ct., Suite 160
Raleigh, NC 27604
919-877-5500
1-800-832-FISH
Managing Editor: Sherry White
Contributors: Wayne Justice, Julie Powers,
Lindsay Thornton, Virginia Aquarium and Marine
Science Center, Frank Krasovec, Cyle Casey, Kyle
Humphrey, Mark Joyner, Jay Barnes, Claire Aubel,
Teresa Kelly, Sue Mobley, Amy Kilgore, Emily Jones,
Buster Nunemaker, Shaun Tomson, Allen Smith,
Allen Monroe, Lee Moore, Karen Doody, Jim Smith,
Sandy Smith, Shasta Hartley, John Mauser, Georgia
Aquarium, Neil GT Photography, The Knot, Michele
Bunce, Kathy Mitchell, Peggy Sloan, Chad Goodson,
Windy Arey-Kent, Georgia Minnich, Terry Bryant,
Pat McNeese, Heather Broadhurst, Caterina
Gennaro, Christian Guerreri, Katherine Fourhman,
Kitty Dough.
Design by Sally Johns Design, Raleigh, NC
Printing by Hickory Printing Group
Renew Your Membership!
Is your membership about to expire?
Three EASY ways to renew!
1. Call 1-800-832-FISH
2. Check ncaquariums.com and click on
"Join the Aquarium"
3. Complete the membership form on
pg. 17. Write RENEWAL at the top, then
clip and mail!
4
Aquarium
Showcases Sharks
5
Take the
Plunge!
Catch the Wave 6
10
Goodness
Sakes – It’s
Snakes!
11
Best of
Weddings
13
Taking Off
14
The Real ‘Dirt’
Summer 2010
A Q U A R I U M
N E W S M A G A Z I N E O F T H E N O R T H C A R O L I N A A Q U A R I U M S NEWS
On the Cover: These striped bass struck a pose for Kyle
Humphrey of Kure Beach, during his visit to the Aquarium
at Fort Fisher. The photo took first place in the At the
Aquarium category in the Aquariums’ 2009 contest.
Cover Inset: A sea star slowly grapples its way through
stalks of soft coral. Cyle Casey of Henrico, VA, captured
this scene on the U-352 to win Honorable Mention in
the Underwater Close-Up category in the Aquariums’
photo contest.
Receive timely updates on coming Aquarium activities by signing up for SEAmail, our Photo by Sherry White
monthly e-newsletter. If you’re a member of the Aquarium family, you’ve already found
SEAmail in your inbox. Not a member? Not a problem. Visit ncaquariums.com and sign up
to have it delivered each month!
Frank Krasovec of
Fuquay-Varina won
second place in the
Underwater Open
category in the
Aquariums’ 2009 photo
contest for his shot of
Atlantic spadefish on
the Spar wreck.
Photo by Julie Powers
Photo by John Mauser
In Memoriam
The Aquariums lost a
wonderful friend and
supporter in March,
with the passing of
Herbert “Herb” McKim
of Wilmington, NC.
Herb was the architect
and visionary for all
three NC Aquarium
expansions, and it was
always a privilege to work with him. Our
thoughts and prayers are extended to his
wife of 59 years, Catherine, and the
McKim family.
Design by Chad Goodson
By Mark Joyner, Executive Vice President
NC Aquarium Society
Herb McKim
Photo by Caterina Gennaro
Photo by Wayne Justice
R
PINE KNOLL SHORES
FORT FISHER
JENNETTE’S
PIER
The Aquarium on Roanoke
Island welcomed Maylon White
as its new director in February.
He replaces Joe Malat, who
retired in December.
White is the former director of
exhibits and animal husbandry
for the Virginia Aquarium and
Marine Science Center, a
position he held for 12 years.
White oversaw the recent
$22.6 million expansion of the
Virginia Aquarium and, prior
to serving as director, held the
position of exhibits curator at
the facility for 10 years. He has
an undergraduate degree in
biology/marine science and a
master’s of science degree in
oceanography/biology from Old
Dominion University.
“I’m excited to be joining the
team at the North Carolina
Aquarium on Roanoke Island,”
said White. “I’m impressed with
the Aquarium and the vision
state and aquarium leaders
have, especially concerning
the Jennette’s Pier project.
I’m ready to get started.”
A certified SCUBA instructor,
White is active in the
Association of Zoos and
Aquariums (AZA), having served
on several accreditation inspec-tion
teams. The Aquariums are
accredited members of AZA and
its 221 members. These organi-zations
work together to build
North America's largest wildlife
conservation movement.
Participating facilities inspire
more than 175 million visitors
and their communities to
become guardians of wildlife.
The North Carolina Aquarium at
Pine Knoll Shores welcomes its
new Director, Allen Monroe.
Well respected throughout the
public aquarium community,
Monroe earned his bachelor’s of
science degree in Wildlife and
Fisheries Sciences from Texas
A&M University and his master’s
of business administration degree
from the University of Texas.
He comes to Pine Knoll Shores
from Austin, Texas, where he had
been Director of Operations for
the ADM Group since 2004. The
consulting firm helps private, state
and federal organizations manage
research projects and policy devel-opment.
He has held management
positions at the Indianapolis Zoo
and the Oregon Coast Aquarium
and brings more than 20 years of
experience in the operation of
public aquariums and the estab-lishment
of education, research
and conservation programs.
“I’m excited to be joining the
excellent staff and volunteers
at the North Carolina Aquarium
at Pine Knoll Shores, and continu-ing
the work of inspiring appreci-ation
and conservation of North
Carolina’s aquatic environments,”
said Monroe.
Monroe takes the position previ-ously
held by Jay Barnes. Barnes
retired from state employment
after 20 years as Director at Pine
Knoll Shores, and a total of 30
years with the North Carolina
Aquariums Division. Barnes is now
Director of Development for the
North Carolina Aquarium Society.
The membership-based Aquarium
Society supports exhibits, pro-grams
and operations at the three
North Carolina Aquariums.
Maylon White
Brian Dorn, husbandry curator at the Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, was
selected as the sole recipient of the 2010 Robert O. Wagner Scholarship
Award, presented by The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). All
three North Carolina state-operated public Aquariums are accredited by
AZA. Dorn has been husbandry curator at the Aquarium at Pine Knoll
Shores for more than four years.
Dorn used the merit-based scholarship to attend AZA’s Advanced Avian
Program Management course in preparation for “Winging It – Birds in
Flight” (see related story, page 13), a new and exciting live-animal program
that will debut at the Aquarium this summer. The award included more
than $2,500 for tuition, board and travel accommodations. Dorn is one of
four trainers at the Aquarium who spent last fall and winter preparing to
handle owls, hawks and waterbirds for the new public program.
By Julie Powers
Public Relations Coordinator
Allen Monroe
By Buster Nunemaker
Public Relations Coordinator
Photo courtesy of Virginia Aquarium
At the
Helm
Cold-stunned sea turtles swamped the East Coast this past winter in
what may be the biggest turtle stranding event since record-keeping
began. Nearly 75 live turtles from Cape Hatteras beaches were rescued
and rehabilitated during the unusually cold winter. Sizes ranged from
a 4-pound Kemp’s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii) to a 136-pound
loggerhead (Caretta caretta). The Aquariums helped care for more
than half the rescued animals.
The big chill reached as far south as Florida, where nearshore ocean
and estuarine water temperatures dropped into the 40s. Up and down
the East Coast, a major rescue effort collected 5,000 sea turtles, most
of which were live green turtles. Eighty per cent recovered and were
released.
Sea turtles are reptiles and can’t regulate their body temperature.
They normally survive cold spells by seeking warmer waters. Body
temperatures below 50° F cause lethargy, or “stunning,” and turtles
become inactive and float at the surface. During severe or prolonged
cold periods, they may not recover. Juveniles are especially vulnerable
because of their small body mass.
Large numbers of green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas), one of the
smaller sea turtle species, often turn up cold-stunned, because they
frequent shallow water to feed on their favorite food – seagrass.
The Aquarium on Roanoke
Island began accepting
cold-stunned animals in mid-
December for what turned out
to be a record North Carolina
stranding season. With the help
of the local non-profit Network
for Endangered Sea Turtles
(NEST), 41 live-stranded
turtles were cared for at the
Aquarium’s five-tank facility.
Thanks to volunteers and dona-tions,
NEST covers stranding
response, transport, medical
costs and daily care. The
Aquarium provides logistical
coordination, rehabilitation
facilities and nutrition.
An influx of small green turtles
soon led to tight quarters in
the Aquarium’s Roanoke Island
rehab facility. With the help
of charter boat captains and
Coast Guard stations from
Hatteras Inlet to Fort
Macon, many rehabbed
turtles were released into
the warm Gulf Stream
before the next wave of
strandings hit just before
Christmas.
With turtles continuing to
arrive, the Roanoke Island
facility quickly became
overwhelmed. On Feb. 6,
a single trip resulted in the
rescue of 19 turtles! Patients
were sent to the Aquariums
at Fort Fisher and Pine
Knoll Shores; Karen Beasley
Sea Turtle Rescue and
Rehabilitation Center on
Topsail Island; and to
facilities in Virginia,
South Carolina, Georgia
and Florida.
Because of the massive number of fatalities, North Carolina institutions
helped with necropsies (animal autopsies) and received nearly 500
turtle carcasses from Florida. Volunteer scientists and biologists,
including several from the Aquariums, assisted with weighing, measur-ing,
photographing, dissecting, recording data and preserving organs.
Necropsies help determine, or rule out, cause of death and provide
other valuable information. For sea turtles, ingested marine debris
and anatomical deformities are noted. Skin samples help determine
genetics. Muscle samples may indicate where animals have been
feeding. The humerus bone of the flipper is used to help determine age.
The Aquariums have a long history of working with other groups to
help sea turtles. Caring for sick or injured turtles takes the mobilization
of a network of local, state and federal agencies, non-profits and
dedicated volunteers. Find out how you can help. Look for the
Conservation/Research link at www.ncaquariums.com. Other North
Carolina resources include www.nestonline.org and
www.seaturtlehospital.org.
Scholarship for the Birds
By Claire Aubel, Public Relations Assistant
Photo by Julie Powers
Husbandry Curator Brian Dorn meets a red-tailed hawk.
Photo by Lindsay Thornton
Tough Winter
for Turtles
By Christian Guerreri, Aquarist
Pat McNeese, Conservation and Research Coordinator
Rehab quarters filled to capacity at the Aquarium on Roanoke Island last winter, when unusually cold temperatures flooded the facility with ailing sea turtles.
Aquarist Michele Lamping checks
on a recovering green sea turtle.
NEST volunteer Valerie Morell monitors
the progress of a loggerhead sea turtle.
Photo by Teresa Kelly
Photo by Claire Aubel
Photo by Teresa Kelly
2 Aquarium NEWS Aquarium NEWS 3
Aquarium NEWS 5
The Hamptons may have the “jet set,” but the Aquariums
have the “get-wet set.” See what it’s all about by signing
on for one or more of the Aquariums’ fun and interesting
Special Activity programs. Canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling,
surfing, crabbing, clamming, fishing – all involve adults
and youngsters in the exploration and investigation of
coastal sounds, beaches and maritime forests. These
Special Activities require advance registration and fees.
It’s not surprising that the Aquariums’ day camps for
young adventurers are one of the most popular summer
activities. Camps run June through August and always
fill quickly. Each session is designed for a specific age
group, and opening registration and camp dates vary at
each facility. Check details by visiting ncaquariums.com
and clicking on your favorite Aquarium. For camp
registration, call 1-800-832-FISH (3474) as early as
possible to check space availability.
Back inside, the Aquariums offer free programs daily.
Visitors can take in regular features such as live animal
presentations, animal feedings, live dives, films, videos,
animal encounters, games, crafts and more.
For a complete listing of what’s happening this summer,
visit ncaquariums.com and click on your favorite facility.
Check out its programs and activities page and the
interactive calendar, where you’ll find details about each
event. Many programs and activities fill quickly, so plan
ahead and don’t miss the fun!
Photo by Claire Aubel
Photo by Wayne Justice
Photo by Emily Jones
Put your fins and flippers together for the funniest “fish face”
the Aquariums found in a year-long competition.
Kayley Ireland of Merritt, NC, mimicked the expression on the
face of a puppy drum she caught to win the “Show Us Your
Fish Face” grand prize. Kayley chose “Big Mouth” as her Fish
Face name. The winning package for Kayley and her family
includes a two-night stay at the Hampton Inn Atlantic Beach,
dinner at a local restaurant, a behind-the-scenes tour of the
Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores and a family membership
in the NC Aquarium Society.
Throughout last year, people of all ages puckered, pouted
and puffed their way onto the Aquariums’ contest website,
“showusyourfishface.com.” Judges scrutinized an ocean of
entries and top vote-getters to choose one winner each
month. Those 12 enjoyed a $25 Aquarium gift basket of
goodies and moved on to compete for the grand prize.
Kayley caught her
22-inch puppy drum
while fishing with
her grandparents.
She didn’t know at
the time that her
pursed-lip pose
could be a potential
prize-winner.
“She loves to make
people laugh, so she
made her fish face
and knew we would
get a kick out of it,”
said her mother,
Heather Ireland. “It wasn't until afterwards, when I was
sharing the hilarious picture with friends at work, that I
found out about the contest. It's a great honor and we are
truly appreciative.”
Kayley hams it up with her winning
Fish Face photo catch.
By Amy Kilgore, Public Relations Coordinator
Fishy-est Face Winner
Sharks are in the spotlight this summer
at the Aquarium on Roanoke Island. Along
with the apex predators currently cruising
the 285,000-gallon Graveyard of the
Atlantic exhibit, a new display highlights
smaller sharks. Shark-themed logo mascot,
Dr. Finnegan, guides visitors through the
Aquarium to discover how these ancient
fish became such successful survivors.
Visitors also learn why scientists are so
concerned about the future of sharks in
our oceans.
Photo by Sue Mobley
Aquarium
By Katherine Fourhman, Educator
Buster Nunemaker, Public Relations Coordinator
“In addition to our resident sharks, we’re bringing in new and
different species, including some ‘sharky’ freshwater cousins,”
said Frank Hudgins, director of operations and husbandry at
the Aquarium. “There’s also special activity programs, like
‘Snack with the Sharks’ and ‘Breakfast with the Rays,’ that
reveal the relationship of sharks to their stingray and
skate cousins.”
The shark-themed summer includes interactive elements for
visitors, such as a life-size shark cage, shark jaws and skin, an
anatomical shark cross-section and other hands-on features.
Get a real feel for these maligned animals by touching small,
live bamboo sharks, as they swim with their stingray relatives
in the newly-renovated Close Encounters exhibit.
On Thursdays, sharky goings-on include activities and give-aways.
Throughout the summer, guest speakers are scheduled
to present talks on these fascinating yet greatly feared
creatures. For speakers and dates, visit www.ncaquariums.com
and click on Roanoke Island, then type sharks in the search box
at the bottom of the menu shown at left.
If you’re a fossil fan, don’t miss the chance to go sleuthing for
pre-historic shark teeth in the Aquarium’s outdoor Fossil Pit.
You get to keep your finds!
4 Aquarium NEWS
Aquarium NEWS
Surfing has come a long way since first observed by Europeans
in the 1700s. While its culture continues to evolve, one thing
remains unchanged: a respect for the ocean.
The art of surfing, called he'enalu in Hawaii, will be the focus
June 5-6, when the Aquarium at Fort Fisher debuts its Surf It,
Save It: Aquarium Surf Festival. The weekend is designed to
encourage environmental stewardship through surfing, as well
as educate visitors about the sport’s culture and lifestyle.
The festival lineup includes surfing films; an exhibit on the
history of surfing with vintage boards; hula and ukulele
demonstrations; rehabilitated shorebirds and turtles; sea oat
plantings; and clean-ups of Masonboro and Zeke’s islands. On
the nearby beach, Surfer’s Healing will stage mini-camps for
autistic children and the US Coast Guard will demonstrate
search-and-air rescue, featuring a C-130 and H60 helicopter.
Celebrities will be on hand, too. Skipper Funderberg, local
author of “Surfing on the Cape Fear Coast,” will sign copies of
his book, and board shapers Sean O’Donnell and Will Allison will
discuss the evolution of surfboard design. Shaun Tomson, former
world-champion surfer from South Africa, will host a private
showing of his mid-70s surfing feature film, "Bustin' Down The
Door," and sign copies of his book, “Surfer's Code – 12 Simple
Lessons for Riding Through Life,” available in the Aquarium
Gift Shop.
Surf and ocean art by photographer DJ Struntz will also be on
exhibit, and large, outdoor installations by Sean Ruttkay will be
featured in the Aquarium garden.
For a complete schedule of events and times, visit
ncaquariums.com and click on the Aquarium at Fort Fisher.
A New Angle
AA NNeeww AAnnggllee
“Rescue Men: The Story of the
Pea Island Lifesavers” chroni-cles
the nation’s only all-black
US Life-Saving Service
crew. From 1880 until after
WWII, black lifesavers per-formed
many daring sea res-cues,
saving the lives of
scores of men, women and
children who, under other cir-cumstances,
would have con-sidered
the hands of those
reaching out to help them to
be of the “wrong” race.
The Pea Island station was
part of a network of stations
along the American coast
after the Civil War, during an
era when the prosperity of
the nation was dependent
upon maritime trade.
In January 1880, former
slave Richard Etheridge was
appointed to lead the Pea
Island station crew. Few
blacks had held positions in
the service, none as Keeper.
Just five months later, arson-ists
set the station ablaze and
it burned to the ground.
Black crews ran Pea Island for
nearly 70 years, establishing a
reputation as being among
the most diligent and coura-geous
surfmen along the
coast. They showed their
heroism on the night of Oct.
11, 1896, during the worst
hurricane to strike North
Carolina in 50 years.
Etheridge led his crew down
the beach until they came
abreast of the wrecked
schooner E. S. Newman. Upon
realizing that conventional
equipment would not work in
the treacherous conditions,
Etheridge had two men swim
out to the ship. With nothing
but a line tied between them,
the lifesavers made nine trips
through the raging surf and
carried all the mariners to
safety on shore.
It would be 100 years before
the Coast Guard recognized
their heroism. In 1996, during
a ceremony at the Naval
Memorial, Admiral Robert
Kramek posthumously award-ed
a Gold Lifesaving Medal to
Etheridge and his men.
Catch the Wave By Amy Kilgore
Public Relations Coordinator
Pier Making Progress
Construction of a new icon for the coast continues, as Jennette’s
Pier plants itself deep into the sands of the Outer Banks. It’s been
decades since her first timbers were driven in 1939, and the oldest
fishing pier on the Outer Banks is being rebuilt from the bottom
up with massive concrete pilings. At completion, the new pier will
extend 1,000 feet out into the Atlantic Ocean and offer a priceless
perspective on our coastal treasures.
The newest member of the NC Aquarium system has the tradition-al
appeal of a fishing pier, along with a two-story pier house over
the water. Downstairs, visitors can enjoy aquarium tanks and
exhibits and take part in fishing programs in the classroom. Rods
and reels, bait and tackle, food service and a gift shop will all be
available. Upstairs will house more tanks and a spacious meeting
room for public hearings and rental events. Towering above the
pier, three wind turbines will exemplify the pier’s embrace of
alternative energy, including hydrogen fuel cells and banks of
solar panels.
Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting project moves toward
completion in spring 2011. For more information on the construc-tion
process, visit ncaquariums.com and click on Aquarium Piers.
Photo provided by Shaun Tomson
Photo by Jay Barnes
Thanks to reliable weather forecasting, residents along the coast were prepared for this past
winter’s rare snowfall Valentine’s weekend, but the green sea turtle at the entrance to the
Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores looked a little chilly. The bronze sculpture is sponsored by Family
Fare Convenience Stores.
The winter’s unseasonably cold temperatures up and down the East Coast caught many live,
sea-going turtles off guard. Cold-stunning is the most common result, however, fatalities can
and do occur. See related story on page 3.
Snow Turtle
Editor’s Note: “The Lifesavers of Pea Island, Heroes of the Outer
Banks” exhibit at the Aquarium on Roanoke Island pays tribute
to the dedicated and heroic officers and men who served at the
Pea Island Lifesaving Station. Producer and Director Allan R.
Smith of DreamQuest Productions brought this incredible story
to life in a 60-minute documentary film, capturing stories from
the descendants, archival footage and filming reenactment at
the Chicamacomico LSS. Below is Smith's synopsis.
Photo courtesy of Allan R. Smith
LIFESAVERS
Photo by Julie Powers
By Allan R. Smith, DreamQuest Productions
Photo by Allen Monroe
The fall Surf Fishing Workshop at the
Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores Oct.
8-10 will take a “let’s fish first”
approach this year. Participation is
limited, so plan ahead.
The comprehensive workshop opens
Friday evening with a primer on fish
identification and conservation,
plus the basics on equipment, bait
and tackle.
Participants hit the beach Saturday
morning for casting demonstrations
and hands-on practice. The outdoor
session also includes tips and
techniques on net casting for bait
fish. Then, it’s back to the Aquarium
for lunch and an afternoon of
instruction by experienced anglers.
Topics include beach and surf
habitat; rods and reels; line, leaders
and knots; weights, swivels, snaps
and hooks; rigs,lures and bait; and
fish handling and cleaning.
Sunday brings all fishing, all day at
Cape Lookout National Seashore.
Ferry passage, lunches, a Friday
evening social and drawings for
prizes are included in the $150
course fee. To register and for full
details, call the Aquarium in early
fall at 252-247-4003, or toll free
800-832-FISH (3474), or visit
ncaquariums.com and click on the
Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores.
6 Aquarium NEWS 7
Picture this – your shutterbug skills just
earned you $500 as a first-place winner in
the NC Aquariums Amateur Underwater
Photo Contest!
Sponsored by East Carolina Bank, the
annual competition attracts hundreds of
entries from amateur and non-professional
photographers across the country. Entrants
can submit up to three photos in three
different categories, and up to three
images per category. Entry deadline is
Dec. 31 of each year. Winners are
announced in March.
The 2009 contest gleaned stunning shots,
ranging from fishes to fowl. Photos must
be taken in waters off North Carolina;
within the state’s freshwater systems; or in
one of the state’s three public Aquariums.
Entries are judged on creativity; proficiency
in underwater photography; representation
of the state’s marine organisms and
habitats; and the depiction of beauty and
diversity of North Carolina’s aquatic life.
First place winners receive $500; second
place $200; and third place $100.
Honorable Mentions receive $50. To view
winning entries, or for additional contest
information, visit ncaquariums.com.
Congratulations to this year’s winners!
1st Place: Cookie Cutter
Sea Star
Lee Moore
Atlantic Beach, NC
Spar wreck, 100 ft.
2nd Place: Oyster Toadfish
Karen Doody
Morehead City, NC
Suloide wreck, 60 ft.
3rd Place: Blenny
Jim Smith
Duncansville, PA
Aeolus wreck
1st Place: Reticulate Moray
Sandy Smith
Duncansville, PA
U-352 wreck, 110 ft.
2nd Place: Atlantic Spadefish
Frank Krasovec
(See feature photo on
Contents page)
3rd Place: Barracuda
Karen Doody
Morehead City, NC
Titan tugboat, 60 ft.
Honorable Mention:
Sand Tiger Shark
Frank Krasovec
Fuquay-Varina, NC
Spar wreck, 80 ft.
1st Place: Striped Bass
Kyle Humphrey
Kure Beach, NC
Aquarium at Fort Fisher
2nd Place: Eastern Newt
Shasta Hartley
Dudley, NC
Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
3rd Place: Bobwhites
Karen Doody
Morehead City, NC
Aquarium at Fort Fisher
Photo Contest Winners!
1 1
2 3
8 Aquarium NEWS Aquarium NEWS 9
Underwater Close-ups
Underwater Open
At the Aquariums
3
HM
2
3
1
Goodness Sakes, It’s Snakes!
These non-venomous constrictors are common throughout North Carolina and the
southeastern United States. Most corn snakes grow to a length of 5 feet, and are red, orange,
yellow, black and brown in color. In rare cases, corn snakes are found with unusual colors or
patterns. The first wild albino, or amelanistic, corn snake was found in North Carolina in
1953. A herpetologist bred the albino to produce more amelanistic corn snakes.
Over the years, other unusually colored corn snakes have been bred, adding endless color
and pattern possibilities to the captive gene pool. Captive breeding helps reduce pressure on
wild populations, and today there are more than 100 different morphs of captive-bred corn
snakes! Their docile nature and beautiful colors make them popular captive-bred pets.
The Bear Creek Farm exhibit features up to10 different snakes, ranging from butter yellow to
blood red to blizzard white, along with other colors. Their patterns also vary from saddles to
spots to stripes. Make it a point to check out Bear Creek Farm on your next visit to the
Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. You’ll marvel at the “cornucopia” of colors and patterns!
One of the greatest benefits of being a NC Aquarium Society
member is found when traveling to other zoos and aquariums
around the U S. and Canada – free or discounted admission!
Currently, 190 institutions offer some level of reciprocity with
NC Aquarium memberships.
The most recent addition to this list is the spectacular Georgia
Aquarium in Atlanta, which offers a special discount via their
website only (visit georgiaaquarium.org/nc). Closer to home,
our members get in free at the NC Zoo, Natural Science
Center of Greensboro, Western NC Nature Center, Sylvan
Heights Waterfowl Park in Scotland Neck and, of course, all
three NC Aquariums!
Before planning your next road trip, be sure to check our
complete reciprocity listing at ncaquariums.com/membership.
By John Mauser, Aquarist
Barns, sheds and outbuildings are favorite hunting grounds for corn snakes.
The new Bear Creek Farm exhibit at the Aquarium at Pine Knoll
Shores features corn snakes in myriad colors and patterns. The
exhibit’s rustic setting recreates a scene from an old barn, like
those scattered throughout the state. Old sheds and barns are
known hunting
grounds for
hungry corn
snakes looking for
a tasty mouse.
Corn snakes are
sometimes called
rat snakes
because of their
taste for rodents.
Captive-bred corn snakes, like the ones above,
come in a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns.
In the wild, these docile snakes are reddish-orange
with multicolored markings.
Who can be more particular about details
than a bride-to-be? All the more reason the
Aquarium on Roanoke Island was delighted
when local brides voted it “Best of Weddings
2010 Pick.” The recognition appears in The
Knot, a local and national magazine deemed
the No. 1 wedding resource most used and
trusted by brides. The magazine in turn voted
the Aquarium “Best of Museums” – “a sea-side
soiree that guests won’t soon forget.”
"We're delighted to have been given these
wonderful designations,” said Michele Bunce,
special events coordinator at the Aquarium
on Roanoke Island. “We try to make guest
experiences one they won’t forget, especially
the most special day in a person’s life – their
wedding day. Sunset ceremonies, cocktails in
our beautiful galleries, dinner and dancing
under the sea – the possibilities are endless.”
The Knot reaches more than a million
engaged couples each year. It also produces
books and TV programs. The designation,
“Best of Weddings,” provides a by-brides-for-
brides guide to top wedding professionals
across the country and is considered a must-have
reference when it comes to selecting
the best-of-the-best.
The state’s three public Aquariums provide
unique venues for special occasions – from
weddings and reunions to conferences and
retreats. They’re eco-friendly, and revenue
generated by facility rentals is “recycled”
to support the Aquariums’ mission, programs
and future development. “You can say we’re
sustainably chic!” quipped Bunce.
Consider one of the Aquariums as a site for
your next special event. For information, visit
www.ncaquariums.com
and click on your
favorite Aquarium.
Select the “Rent the
Aquarium” menu listing
for information and
contact numbers.
En garde for high-seas hi-jinks on
June 17, when pretend-pirates board
the Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores at 4
p.m. for the first of five Family Nights.
Family Nights are scheduled every other
Thursday June 17-August 12, when the
Aquarium extends its hours until 8 p.m.
for these special evenings. Each Family
Night features a different theme and
activities are free with admission or
membership. Daytime visitors can
return after 4 p.m. at no additional
charge with their receipts from earlier
in the day. Mark your calendars for
these fun-filled evenings!
Every other Thursday
June 17 - August 12 • 4-8 p.m.
June 17 Pirates
July 1 North Carolina Culture
July 15 Slime, Scales and
Salamander Tales
July 29 Sharks
Aug. 12 Winging It: Birds in Flight
It’s Family Night
North Carolina saw abundant rainfall over the winter. Storms flooded
roads and left persistent puddles and soggy areas around homes.
If you experienced such problems, a rain garden may be the answer.
Rain gardens are created in shallow depressions to capture stormwater
runoff from rooftops and driveways and intercept pollutants carried
by runoff before they reach open waterways. Plants and soils in rain
gardens remove contaminants and allow excess water to filter slowly
into the ground, reducing flooding and erosion. No need to worry about
mosquitoes – rain gardens are designed to retain water no
more than two days. Plants for rain
gardens must be able to tolerate
periods of flooding and survive
occasional drought. Fortunately,
many native North Carolina plants
are well-suited for such conditions.
Don’t miss the beautiful native plants in the rain gardens at the
Aquariums at Pine Knoll Shores and on Roanoke Island. These “green”
landscapes demonstrate how you can prevent water pollution, provide
wildlife habitat and enhance your property with dazzling seasonal color.
For more about rain gardens, see www.bae.ncsu.edu/topic/raingarden/
Reining in Rain
By Kathy Mitchell, Conservation Horticulturist
Aquarium Voted
‘Best of Weddings’
Photo courtesy of Georgia Aquarium
Photos by John Mauser
Photo by Neil GT Photography
Photo by Julie Powers
10 Aquarium NEWS Georgia Aquarium Aquarium NEWS 11
Aquarium NEWS Aquarium NEWS
Ever wonder what it’s like to feed the animals in the
Aquariums’ largest tanks?
This spring the Aquarium at Fort Fisher implemented a new,
enhanced tour for visitors that includes participation in
feeding of some of the Aquarium’s largest residents in the
235,000-gallon Cape Fear Shoals exhibit.
“In response to requests about the popular ‘Behind-the-Scenes’
tours and feedings, participants found the Cape Fear Shoals
exhibit to be the most interesting,” said Aquarium Curator
Hap Fatzinger.
Following a guided tour of the Aquarium’s inner workings,
visitors are escorted to the most hidden part of the Cape Fear
Shoals display. Here, a new raised platform over the exhibit
allows participants a bird’s-eye view of animal behaviors and
an exclusive, first-hand feeding experience of sharks, eels,
stingrays and other animals that glide gracefully through the
offshore reef habitat.
Sign up for this new inside look at the Aquarium, and see
what’s for lunch!
What’s red, purple, black, green and fun
all over? The Aquarium at Fort Fisher’s
Adventure Reef, scheduled to open in
late summer.
Construction of this new, stimulating,
outdoor play area began in March. Plans
for the colorful space include an under-the-
sea scene sure to spark interest and
inquisitiveness among the little folks.
Youngsters can climb a sea fan, explore a
reef and slide through a moray eel.
Parents can grab a snack at the nearby
concession area and relax in the shade,
while their young explorers investigate
the underwater fantasy realm.
Adventure Reef is the first phase of
construction in this new interactive play
space that will be located in the Aquarium’s garden area. A fossil dig is also part of the design, where older explorers can go
sleuthing for ancient artifacts and relics. Our state’s rich fossil history is revealed through fossilized shark teeth, bones, and other
treasures – all waiting to be discovered. Adventure Reef and the Fossil Pit will be located on opposite sides of the Aquarium’s
concession deck, giving parents a chance to join the fun with their youngsters, or relax and watch the action.
Stay tuned for updates as construction continues over the summer.
By Peggy Sloan, Education Curator
Rendering by Chad Goodson
‘Close Encounters’ Gets a Re-do
With renovations well underway, upgrading of the popular Close
Encounters exhibit at the Aquarium on Roanoke Island is scheduled to be
completed in time for summer visitors.
Photo by Buster Nunemaker
Photo by Emily Jones
View from Topside
A New Adventure
The Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
lifts off with a new program this
summer – “Winging It: Birds in Flight.”
Joining the “flight crew” of educators are some pretty
exciting feathered friends, including both raptors and
shorebirds, to delight and engage audiences daily in the
Big Rock Theater. The birds glide overhead, performing a
variety of natural behaviors and responding to cues, as
the flight crew shares conservation and educational
information about the animals.
The avian program promises much fun and excitement
for visitors. It also presents a unique opportunity for the
audience to interact with new and different animals.
Some of the program's birds have permanent injuries
that prevent their release back into the wild.
The birds featured are
found in various
parts of the
state, and
most travel
long distances
seasonally.
By Windy Arey-Kent
Education Curator
Illustrations by Georgia Minnich
Taking
Off !
By Emily Jones, Assistant Amid the solitude of winter beach- Public Relations Coordinator
es, the Aquarium on Roanoke Island
was busy preparing new exhibits
and renovating Aquarium favorites.
This summer, the popular Close
Encounters exhibit has a fresh, new
look and added high-tech features.
New fishes surround the touch
pools with bright color.
State-of-the-art technology, video
display screens and cameras provide
visitors with a breathtaking level of
detail for showcasing some of the
Aquarium’s most unique creatures.
There are also custom-designed
display cabinets to house treasures
from the sea, such as whelk egg
cases, intricate shells and curious
beach finds.
Close Encounters highlights two
very different habitats. In the
stingray pool, rays and guitarfish,
gentle cousins of sharks, glide
on silent wings. Prehistoric
horseshoe crabs plow slowly
through the sand. And this
summer, white-spotted bamboo
sharks will make their debut.
In the nearby shallow-water
pool, visitors become acquainted
with a wide variety of inverte-brates,
including sea stars, sea
urchins and hermit crabs.
From top to bottom, the reno-vated
exhibit brings some of
the Aquarium’s most intriguing
animals into sharper focus. Come
and experience the wonder and
touch the magic of life beneath
the waves.
By Kitty Dough, Exhibits Technician
12 13
Showcasing migratory birds emphasizes the connections
between wide-ranging habitats and the necessity for
comprehensive conservation.
“Winging It: Birds in Flight” is set to premiere Memorial Day
weekend, with daily programs at 11:30 a.m. Tickets must be
purchased at the Aquarium
the day of the program.
Program admission is
$4 per person for ages
3 and up, in addition
to Aquarium admission.
Memberships do not
include “Birds in Flight”
admission or discounts.
Others were bred in
captivity, or obtained
from a network of
cooperative zoos and
aquariums.
The Aquariums offer great photo oppor-tunities
of fishes and other aquatic
creatures, but don’t underestimate
the outdoor surroundings.
A luna moth’s vibrant lime green, yellow,
white and magenta colors stand out like
pop art against the lavender-gray wall
at the Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores.
These striking winged wonders are one
of the largest moths in North America.
Wingspans can reach 3 to 4 inches!
Lunas appear in late spring, but because
their adult life span is only about a week,
they are seldom seen. The best chance
of a sighting is early evening or night,
when you may spy a luna clinging to
your porch screen or flitting around
outside lights.
As short-lived adults, mating and egg
laying must take place quickly. Females
release a pheromone detectable from
great distances by the feathery antennae
of males.
After mating, eggs are deposited on
plants such as sweet gum, willow,
walnut, beech, alder and persimmon.
Winged Wonder
Photo by Sherry White
Meet at the Aquarium
By Heather Broadhurst, Aquarist
The Real ‘Dirt’
on the Aquariums
Beautiful exhibits, healthy animals and a clean, safe
environment greet more than a million Aquarium visitors each
year. To create such a welcome takes dedicated staffs and
volunteers – and sometimes the work isn’t so glamorous.
Before the Aquariums open each morning, housekeeping is
cleaning bathrooms, vacuuming public areas and polishing
exhibit windows. Other staff members empty smelly, rotten
fruit and vegetable waste into the compost bin. Exhibit
technicians begin fabricating new displays, requiring strong-smelling
and messy fiberglass, paints and epoxies. Plumbers
unclog numerous fouled drains.
Many visitors think the daily thawing and chopping of scaly,
slimy fish, squid and other animal foodstuff is the most
unpleasant part of an Aquarium job. But without question, the
most consistent dirty duty is removal of animal waste.
Because a fish’s environment is also its latrine, aquarists must
maintain clean water quality by siphoning waste and changing
dirty, heavy filter bags. Aquarists also clean sludge-filled
protein skimmers that help keep the water clean – imagine
your arm smeared with black, smelly funk. Such maintenance is
necessary not only for the many animals on display, but for a
multitude of specimens in holding facilities and enclosures
behind the scenes.
Otter antics are great fun to watch, but caring for these high-energy
animals is labor-intensive. Because otters digest food
rapidly, a pound of food goes in and a pound of “poo” comes
out. Aquarists clean large amounts of waste daily from the
otters’ exhibit and their behind-the-scene quarters.
Everyone loves sea turtles, however, sea turtles are messy,
high-maintenance animals. Veterinary exams are part of their
care. When vets examine turtles, the animal often shows its
gratitude by streaming poo all over the vet or assistants. Some
snakes also “share.” While their enclosure is being cleaned, or
when an educator is using them in a live-animal presentation,
they emit musk. The pungent odor is the handler’s perfume for
the day.
On your next visit to your favorite Aquarium, think about what
goes on behind the scenes. If you’re enjoying the fish, turtles,
alligators, otters and other animals as they swim, rest and play
in their clean, watery worlds, it means we’re doing our job.
Special Activities instructor Curt Hendrix empties vegetable
waste into the compost bin.
Photo by Amy Kilgore Photo by Sherry White
Aquarist Lauran Jozik performs regular clean-up duty in the
otter exhibit.
Photo by Teresa Kelly
Aquarist Rich Bamberger cleans sludge from one of many
protein skimmers.
Photo by Julep Gillman-Bryan
Aquarium NEWS 15
Looking for just the right place to stage your wedding, anniversary,
birthday party, conference, staff retreat or corporate dinner?
With colorful fish flitting among corals and sea turtles gliding lazily through
quiet waters, the Aquariums set the scene for a delightfully different venue.
All three state-operated public Aquariums are equipped with auditoriums,
classrooms, conference rooms and catering access. Serene and spacious
galleries provide ample room for mingling. Outside decks and courtyards
allow guests to socialize al fresco amid beautiful surroundings.
For your next gala or business-related gathering, consider the Aquariums
for your meeting site. You can be assured everything will go swimmingly!
For information, visit www.ncaquariums.com, or call toll free
800-832-FISH (3474).
14 Aquarium NEWS
If you live in North Carolina, or frequently travel our highways,
chances are you’ve seen the Aquariums’ newest promotional
venture: The colorful, fish-filled billboard shown above.
Through a partnership with the North Carolina Outdoor Advertisers
Association, 50 new billboards began popping up this spring, from
the Interstates of western North Carolina to our coastal highways.
All major billboard companies in the state are participating.
The promotion helps create awareness of the Aquariums among those
who have yet to visit. But the new design also reminds travelers of the
beauty and serenity offered by an Aquarium visit and the inspirational
moments that await them.
The youngster featured in the new billboard venture is Vivian Aubel,
an avid Aquarium fan!
Photo by Clinton Willis, Design by Georgia Minnich
16 Aquarium NEWS Aquarium NEWS 17
II. Member Information
Name of 1st Adult
Name of 2nd Adult
Address:
City: ____________________State: ______ Zip: ______________
Phone: ( )
Email Address:
Please check here if you wish to receive SEAmail, our monthly e-newsletter
Number of children and grandchildren under age 18:
I / We primarily visit the Aquarium at:
Roanoke Island Pine Knoll Shores Fort Fisher
III. Payment Information
Total Payment: $
Method: Check Visa Mastercard
(Please make checks payable to NC Aquarium Society)
Card Number:
Exp. Date:
Signature:
Thank you for your support of the North Carolina Aquariums!
This application can be turned in at the Aquariums when you visit or mailed to the
NC Aquarium Society, 3125 Poplarwood Ct., Suite 160, Raleigh, NC 27604.
Your membership provides operating support to the North
Carolina Aquariums, and helps make possible the unique
experiences enjoyed by more than ONE MILLION VISITORS each
year. It also remains the best deal around!
Families can take advantage of UNLIMITED FREE ADMISSION at
all three Aquariums, as well as at the NC Zoo in Asheboro, for
just $50 a year! In addition, Aquarium members receive free
admission at more than 100 other zoos and aquariums around
the country.
Member benefits include 10% discounts on Aquarium gift shop
purchases and educational programs, along with a subscription
to the award-winning Aquarium News magazine.
Updates on upcoming activities such as summer camps and field
trips are provided through SEAmail, our monthly e-newsletter. Add
in complimentary guest passes to share with friends and it's clear
membership definitely has its advantages!
I. Choose a Member Category
Individual (Benefits for one person) ___________________$30
Family (Benefits for the two adults specified, along with their children and
grandchildren under age 18) ____________________________$50
Donor (Benefits with 4 guest passes and exclusive
MEMBER tote bag)__________________________$100
Patron (Donor benefits with 6 guest passes and
10% discount on Aquarium rentals) _______________________$300
Director (Donor benefits with 8 guest passes and
10% discount on Aquarium rentals) _______________________$500
Benefactor (Donor benefits with 10 guest passes and
10% discount on Aquarium rentals)_______________________$1,000
Online membership now available! www.ncaquariums.com/membership
JOIN THE AQUARIUM FAMILY!
Photo by Daniel Walton
Aquariums Honor All-Star Casts
Aquariums Honor All-Star Casts
Sometimes it takes a village.
The three, state-operated, public Aquariums attract more than a million visitors annually. Fortunately, they have a village of industrious
employees and dedicated volunteers who keep all animals healthy and life-support systems operating. Often it’s the volunteers who are the
front-line troops. This special staff interacts one-on-one with visitors and performs myriad duties throughout the Aquariums, including tasks
behind the scenes.
Each year the Aquariums and the NC Aquarium Society honor employees and volunteers who have demonstrated exceptional service in
making the Aquariums better places to work and visit. Recognition includes cash awards, plaques, celebratory dinners and other offerings.
Honorees for 2009 were recently announced.
At the Aquarium at Fort Fisher, Renee Weeks, special
activities coordinator, was chosen by her fellow workers as the
recipient of the FISH™ Philosophy award, and Julie Johnson,
aquarist technician, was selected to receive the Sea Star award.
Jo Wainwright was presented the Volunteer of the Year award,
and Tom Moffitt received the Dive Volunteer of the Year award.
Other Volunteer of the Year recipients were: Donna Budd, Special
Events; Anthony Tuk, Operations; Linda Kuharcik, Horticulture;
Allison Hajek, Aquariology; Alex Dunlap, Education; and James
Maeda, Junior Volunteer. Bob Tuzik received the Volunteer with
the Most Hours award for contributing 866 hours to the Aquarium!
The Aquarium at Pine Knoll
Shores also recognized staff and
volunteers. Employees Bob Stevens
received the Customer Service
award, and Glenda Rouse was
presented the Award of Excellence.
Dick Barmore and Tom Lenweaver
received Volunteer of the Year
awards, and volunteer Rita
Ellington received the Order
of the Spadefish award. Gregg
Macaulay was the recipient of the Volunteer Diver of the Year award for his role as a diver in the Aquarium's "Live Dive" programs. Jennifer
Chamberlain and Grace Ewen were presented Volunteer Lifetime Achievement awards, and volunteer Marian Kutzer was chosen for the
Order of the Octopus award. The Junior Volunteer award was presented to Adriana-Ferello Sheehan. Numerous others were recognized with
Dedicated Volunteer Service and Above and Beyond awards.
At the Aquarium on Roanoke Island,
Aquarist Britt Purtee was selected by co-workers
as the winner of the Starfish Award,
along with Aquarist Christian Legner, who
received the Award of Excellence. The
Aquarium’s Volunteer Appreciation Dinner
recognized Joyce Shiels with the Volunteer
of the Year award, and Dean Morris and
Steve Brown received Volunteer Diver of
the Year awards.
English playwright and poet John Heywood is credited with penning the phrase, “Many hands make light work.” This is certainly true at the
Aquariums, where much is required to keep the Aquariums operating effectively and efficiently. Staffs and volunteers consistently rise to the
occasion to provide the best possible animal care and the most pleasant visitor experience. Their service and dedication make the Aquariums
one of the state’s top tourist attractions.
We thank you!
Renee Weeks Julie Johnson Jo Wainwright Tom Moffitt
Bob Stevens Glenda Rouse Rita Ellington
Britt Purtee Christian Legner Joyce Shiels Dean Morris Steve Brown
Dick Barmore Tom Lenweaver Gregg Macaulay